BC Children's Ministry to Conduct Review Following Sex Abuse Ruling

The B.C. Ministry of Children and Family Development says a review will be undertaken following the release of a scathing B.C. Supreme Court decision.

On Tuesday, the court decision was handed down involving the ministry’s lack of response in a sexual abuse case. The decision detailed the failings of the ministry which resulted in children being placed in foster care and repeatedly sexually and physically abused by their father. On Thursday during question period, Minister Stephanie Cadieux was asked what the government plans to do in response to the misconduct.

MLA John Horgan questioned the actions of the ministry and the lack of a response from the government following the decision.

“They disrupted an investigation. They disregarded a Supreme Court ruling. Most people expect the Ministry of Children and Families to put, first and foremost, the protection of children. To do so, one would assume you would follow and assist a police investigation, and you would follow the letter of the law when conducting your business,” said Horgan Thursday morning. “My question to the minister she did not answer yesterday. How many other court orders has this government disregarded? How many other children have been put at risk because this government believes they're above the law?”

Cadieux finally spoke about the situation, promising to take action and responsive measures if necessary.

“This situation has left very, very real impacts on a family. No one can hear the story and not feel empathy and sympathy. British Columbians deserve to know that their child welfare system is responsive, with the needs of the child first, and always guided by the best interest of a child and accountable for the decisions it makes,” replied Cadieux to Horgan. “Given the seriousness of the decision rendered by the judge, we will necessarily undertake a review relating to the nature of the case, from a policy and practice perspective as well as the HR implications. However, what form that review will take requires a plan that should not be rushed but must not be delayed. I have directed my deputy minister to work with the Public Service Agency on what form of staff conduct review is appropriate in this situation — respecting, of course, public servants' rights to be treated fairly and with due process. My expectation is that that plan will be brought to me with haste.”

The Supreme Court decision detailed the ministry’s failure to protect the children by allowing the father to spend time with his toddler despite a court order.